Project status

Due to legal matters, changing name became inevitable : Evolving from Iris to VELIA.​​ Same innovation, new name​​ (learn more).

We are incredibly proud to share that the VELIA ring has been selected as a CES® 2024 Innovation Awards Honoree. This recognition is a testament to the innovative design and engineering that have gone into creating VELIA. Being honored alongside other trailblazing products is both humbling and energizing.

 

THANK YOU to the +6.5K backers whose incredible support and active engagement is instrumental in making VELIA (ex Iris) a reality.

Currently, we’re running quality testing with our top-tier manufacturers, and finalizing the development of VELIA (ex Iris) App. Here’s the latest updates & most updated timeline

 

 

 

 

The sleekest & smartest ring ever created

The progression of medical science and technology has been phenomenal in recent times. Accessing personalized health information should no longer be considered a privilege, but rather a basic necessity. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Become a Founder of the Future of Healthcare.

We’re on a mission to make that vision a reality. We believe that every individual deserves the right to take control of his health and wellness and that’s why we’re introducing the VELIA (ex Iris) smart ring, a revolutionary new healthcare technology that puts real-time health information right at your fingertips.

With its advanced sensors and innovative design, the VELIA ring  (ex Iris) provides you with a comprehensive picture of your health and wellness. The Iris smart ring is more than just a piece of technology. It’s a symbol of hope for a healthier, more empowered future.

 

March 17, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) Kickstarter campaign ended : +622% of initial target reached, over 4,000 rings sold and since we have received hundreds of requests to pre-order the Iris ring. So we decided to open pre-orders here!

By pre-ordering the VELIA ring (ex Iris) you’ll be joining a movement of individuals who are committed to making cutting-edge healthcare available to everyone.

 

 

From the outset, we’ve been openly displaying our process to welcome you on the journey of VELIA ring (ex Iris).

Together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the information and tools they need to lead a healthy, empowered life.

 

How to do so ?

At the heart of taking control of our health and well-being lies the ability to monitor our cardiovascular system, which gives us valuable insight into both our physical and mental wellness. The market for wearable technology has grown significantly in recent years, (the global market size for connected devices was estimated to be over $200 billion). They have revolutionized the way we track and monitor our health and fitness. With real-life examples like Fitbit and Apple Watch leading the charge, it’s clear that technology can play a major role in helping us live our best lives. However, there’s still a gap when it comes to monitoring the cardiovascular system. These devices are not perfect and can fall short in certain areas. One of the main limitations of connected devices is the accuracy of the data they collect. Many devices rely on sensors to measure various health metrics, such as heart rate and sleep patterns, and the accuracy of these sensors can vary.
 

Smart rings and smartwatches and other wearable devices have all been popular choices for wearable technology, but they can have limitations in terms of aesthetic, accuracy and comfort. 

While smartwatches are a well-established choice, research suggests that the finger is one of the best places for monitoring vital signs, as readings can be impacted by the physiology of the wrist, without mentioning the discomfort of, for instance, sleeping with smartwatches.

 

 

Meanwhile, existing smart rings can also cause readings to be inaccurate due to movement on the finger and they may also be too large and cumbersome to wear comfortably. Not to mention, their design lacks style or high cost that can still be a barrier for some individuals.

Over the years and after more than 60 scientific publications on microelectronics and optical sensors, we have developed a recognized expertise in PPG, the key heart rate sensing technology in wearable. 

We managed to miniaturize professional-grade sensors, avoiding bulkiness (such as blood pressure monitors and pulse oximeters) currently used in medical environments. Today, this technology can be accessible and affordable, presenting a unique opportunity.

 

A true marvel of minimalist technology

That’s where the VELIA ring (ex Iris) comes in;  we understand that people want wearable technology that is reliable, elegant and convenient, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering with the VELIA ring (ex Iris) . With its advanced sensors and intuitive interface, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) is the perfect solution for anyone looking to monitor his health and wellness as well as enjoy a comfortable piece of smart jewelry to wear, with a sleek and elegant design that won’t get in the way of daily life. 

 

Another major advantage of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) is that it tackles the cost challenge head on. Thanks to miniaturization, we use less material, which allows us to offer the VELIA ring (ex Iris) at a highly competitive price point. You can now manage your health and wellness effectively without having to compromise on quality.

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is a true marvel of minimalist technology and engineering prowess.

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) features advanced PPG sensors that meet healthcare technology standards. A Photoplethysmography (PPG) module is made up of a LED that shines light into the skin and a photodetector that collects that light from the tissue. Our state-of-the-art PPG module is significantly smaller than those used by other wearable devices, a remarkable microelectronics achievement.

Key competitors’ rings commonly have 2 photodetectors and 4 LEDs vs. the VELIA ring (ex Iris) that comes with 6 photodetectors and 18 LEDs.

This is a game-changing paradigm : after years of dedicated research, we developed a wearable technology like no other thanks to a unique spatial constellation of optoelectronic components that creates a device that is truly personalized, tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.

On the other hand, we thought of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) with style in mind and wanted it to look elegant and comfortable to wear, thinner and lighter than what you can find in the market.

We’ve compared the VELIA ring (ex Iris) Black prototype to the market leader’s ring and even Assim’s (one of the founders) wedding ring.

 

 

 

 

How does it work ?

 

 

We’ve taken a unique approach to the design of our ring, starting with our advanced PPG technology and building the ring around it. Our state-of-the-art PPG module is significantly smaller than those used by other wearable devices, allowing us to create a sleek and compact ring that is both comfortable and stylish to wear.

 

We’re excited to share with you sneak peeks of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) prototypes. One is a transparent version that is just for you to see the unique spatial constellation of PPG modules inside – pretty cool, right? The second prototype is the Black Edition.

Additionally, our cutting-edge technology not only results in a smaller size, but also dramatically reduces power consumption. This means that our rings require smaller batteries, making them even more miniaturized and easy to wear.

 

 

Before shipments start, you will receive a free of charge sizing kit, including a complete size range (US6 – 14) of fitting rings identical to real ones. Feel free to take your time on choosing your preferred finger for wearing your VELIA ring (ex Iris) and the perfect related ring size.

By focusing on the technology first, we are able to create a wearable device that truly sets the standard for functionality and style. We’ve decided to utilize medically graded Titanium for all three VELIA ring (ex Iris) versions (Gold, Silver, and Black). This choice of material not only offers exceptional durability but also boasts a gold standard biocompatibility, making it safe for prolonged skin contact.

To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Gold and Silver rings, we’ve incorporated a mirror effect finish, achieved through a high-quality PVD coating. This gives them a stunning, glossy appearance that’s sure to catch the eye. Meanwhile, the Black VELIA ring (ex Iris) will feature a matte finish, offering an elegant contrast to its counterparts. It’s important to note that while the Black ring itself will be made of Titanium, the matte finishing will be achieved through a carbon-based process, ensuring a sleek and distinctive look.

We understand the importance of scratch resistance in jewelry, and that’s why we’re proud to share that our supplier is dedicated to providing the highest quality. They’re working on a special treatment with an HV rating that exceeds 2000, a level of scratch resistance that aligns with the rigorous standards upheld by high-end watches, including those with sapphire glass. You can trust that this remarkable level of scratch resistance will be consistent across all three VELIA ring (ex Iris) versions.

Moreover, we are committed to the health and comfort of our customers, which is why we’re pleased to announce that all VELIA ring (ex Iris) will be 100% nickel-free. Your well-being is our top priority, and we want to ensure that wearing our smart rings is a comfortable and worry-free experience.

For those engaging in workouts and physical activities, we recommend considering the use of training gloves for added security. This extra layer of protection not only safeguards your hands but also helps minimize friction between metal exercise tools and your VELIA ring (ex Iris), ensuring its longevity and continued pristine appearance.

 

 

The App

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is constantly evolving, with a growing suite of advanced features. And we’ve got it covered: our road map includes regular over-the-air updates, so you can always stay up-to-date, without needing to purchase a new ring.

The first release of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) will feature a wide range of health and wellness tracking capabilities, designed to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of their body and mind.

 

Some of the key features include personalized optical feedback, breathing rate monitoring, sleep tracking, blood oxygen levels (SpO2), body temperature measurement, stress-related information, heart rate variability and heart rate monitoring, calories burned tracking, distance traveled while walking, and step counting. These features will be accessible through a companion smartphone app, allowing users to easily track their progress and make informed decisions about their health and wellness. The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is poised to revolutionize the wearable technology market and provide users with an unprecedented level of insight into their bodies and minds. Compatible with Android and iOS.  With the VELIA (ex Iris) app, you can log your data into Apple Health and Google Fit, providing you with a comprehensive overview of your health and wellness. Plus, with the ability to export your data in a table in CSV format, you can analyze your progress and make informed decisions about your lifestyle.

 

 

Hear rate readings : Back in Sept 2021, we assessed the performance of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) prototype in detecting heart beats versus an ECG device in both awake and sleep conditions. With VELIA ring (ex Iris), you can easily monitor your heart rate variability and display the data directly on the app. You’ll be able to see : your min and max HR in bpm, your mean and max HRV in ms, even the temporal evolution of your HR and HRV within a chosen time window. The best part ? You can track your heart performance continuously throughout the day. Below are charts from the test ran to assess the Iris ring performance vs. ECG Device in Heart Beat Detection :

 

Sleep monitoring : Our algorithm uses the PPG signals captured by the ring along with motion data and body temperature to provide an accurate and detailed analysis of your sleep patterns. With the VELIA ring (ex Iris), you’ll be able to track your sleep stages in real-time : Awake, REM, Light Sleep, Deep Sleep. Not only does the Iris ring monitor your sleep stages, but it also tracks your heart rate and heart rate variability throughout the night. This information is then used to calculate your sleep quality and provide insights into any disruptions in your sleep.

Workout detection : the VELIA ring (ex Iris) also features automatic workout detection, allowing you to seamlessly track your physical activity. 

Optical feedback : VELIA ring (ex Iris) is embedded with tiny LED lights that can be customized to shine in different colors (blue, green or red) depending on your needs. For instance, if you are out for a run and your heart rate goes above your threshold, you can program Iris to shine in red. It will give you a visual cue that it’s time to slow down and take a break. Similarly, if you have been sitting at your desk for too long, you can program VELIA ring (ex Iris) to shine in green, reminding you to take a walk and stretch your legs. You can personalize Iris’ optical feedback to suit your specific needs, it’s like having a personal coach on your finger that can guide you towards a healthier and more active lifestyle. ou can switch off the optical feedback whenever you wish. So, if you are in a meeting or a movie theatre, you can turn off the light and enjoy your time without any interruptions.

Blood pressure tracking : in Q2 2024, we’ll be adding a groundbreaking over-the-air update to track blood pressure. No need to purchase a new ring to access this function. Our AI-based algorithm looks for specific patterns and features in the captured PPG data to accurately assess : your systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic (DBP), mean (MBP).  The ring requires just one entry point calibration and can provide reliable blood pressure data for months without needing further calibration. The algorithm provides blood pressure trends in real time, so you can catch any signs of hypertension at the first symptoms.  Below are charts from the clinical trials results

 

Fertility tracking : in Q2 2024, we will also adding via an over-the-air update (no need to purchase a new ring to access this function) the capability of tracking fertility, combining heart rate, heart rate variability and medical grade body temperature, for effective BBT (basal body temperature) analysis.

 

Actionable recommendations

Our innovative ring offers you so much more than just a stylish accessory. With our advanced optoelectronic components, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) is capable of providing you with personalized health and wellness recommendations. Whether you are looking to improve your sleep, manage stress, or boost your physical activity, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) is designed to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

 

With the data collected by the ring, you will receive actionable recommendations that are tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. The recommendations provided by the VELIA ring (ex Iris) will give you insights into your daily habits and help you make the necessary changes to improve your overall health and wellness.

 

Not only will the VELIA ring (ex Iris) provide you with valuable insights, but it will also help you track your progress and see the positive changes you are making. With the ability to monitor your sleep patterns, stress levels, and physical activity, you will be able to see the progress you are making in real-time.

 

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is the perfect tool for anyone looking to improve his health and wellness. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just someone who wants to take better care of themselves, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) is the solution you’ve been looking for. You can wear the VELIA ring (ex Iris) even under water: its anticipated waterproof rating allows you using the ring while swimming or bathing (up to 100 meters or 330 feet).

 

What about the battery life ?

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) Charger is a sleek and compact docking station designed to keep your Iris Ring charged and protected. With its innovative design, the charger can charge your VELIA ring (ex Iris) in as little as 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the state of charge. Once fully charged, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) can last for up to three days, giving you the freedom to go about your day without having to worry about running out of battery. The upcoming firmware updates will further prolong the battery lifespan for the Iris ring.

 

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) Charger is easy to use – simply place your VELIA ring (ex Iris) in the charging dock and watch as it charges up quickly and efficiently. With its compact size, the charger is perfect for those on the go, making it easy to keep your VELIA ring (ex Iris) charged no matter where you are.

 

Innovative Technology meets Swiss Precision 

The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is a product of Swiss ingenuity, hailing from the same valley as some of the world’s most renowned watches and jewelry brands, including Rolex, Cartier, and Breitling… With its sleek and stylish design, the VELIA ring (ex Iris) embodies the precision and craftsmanship that Switzerland is known for. The creators of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) have combined their expertise in both technology and luxury goods to produce a product that seamlessly merges functionality and aesthetics. This powerful combination of expertise has resulted in a truly unique product that is sure to make a mark in the world of health and fitness tracking. The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is a perfect addition to the legacy of Swiss precision and innovation, and we are excited to bring this one-of-a-kind product to you.

 

Meet the Brainiacs Behind the VELIA ring (ex Iris)!

Meet Nino and Assim, the dynamic duo behind the VELIA ring (ex Iris) and two loving dads. Nino, an entrepreneurial scientist, and Assim, a talented engineer and photonic sensor designer, both share a PhD in advanced medical sensors and a passion for innovation. It’s no wonder they hit it off from the moment they met at the prestigious “Swiss MIT” a.k.a École Polytechnique de Lausanne.

 

 

 

Their unwavering dedication to their work is evident in their years of research and development, which culminated in the creation of a minimalist and innovative PPG sensor within Senbiosys, the company they co-founded. And now, they bring VELIA ring (ex Iris) powered with Senbiosys technology. Indeed, the goal of VELIA ring (ex Iris) is to make this advanced technology accessible and convenient for everyone, bringing the benefits of smart living within reach.

Their hard work has not gone unnoticed. With over 60 international publications and almost 1000 scientific citations, Nino and Assim have solidified their place as leaders in the tech world.

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Nino’s work was recognized with the Gilbert Hausmann Award in 2021, while Assim’s PhD thesis on Ultra Low Noise CMOS Image Sensors was nominated as an outstanding thesis by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland.

 

 

They have been leaders in the field of healthcare sensors, working tirelessly to create innovative solutions for professionals. But their vision extends far beyond the realm of healthcare professionals. Nino and Assim are driven by a passion to bring the benefits of this technology to everyone. They believe that health and wellness should be accessible and affordable to all, and with the VELIA ring (ex Iris), they’re making that a reality. With their unwavering dedication and their commitment to innovation, Nino and Assim are poised to make a lasting impact on the health and wellness of people everywhere.

 

 

 

 

2019/2020 :  The story of VELIA ring (ex Iris) starts with a defining moment of international recognition. The founders’ paper was accepted at the most prestigious international conference on electronics and solid state circuits, the ISSCC (International Solid-State Circuits Conference) held in San Francisco. This was a major milestone in the Iris journey and marked the first time their innovative work was being recognized on a global scale. This acceptance validated their years of hard work and dedication to their passion for innovation, and solidified their place as leaders in the field of advanced medical sensors. It was a proud moment for Nino and Assim, and the beginning of a journey that would lead to the creation of the Iris Ring, a minimalist and elegant smart ring that utilizes their cutting-edge research and expertise in the field. With your support, they can bring their vision to life.

 

2021/2022 :  Years of research to develop an advanced sensor that fits into a smart and sleek ring. The first release of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) will feature a wide range of health and wellness tracking capabilities, designed to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of their body and mind. Some of the key features include personalized optical feedback, breathing rate monitoring, sleep tracking, blood oxygen levels (SpO2), body temperature measurement, stress-related information, heart rate variability and heart rate monitoring, calories burned tracking, distance traveled while walking, and step counting. These features will be accessible through a companion smartphone app, allowing users to easily track their progress and make informed decisions about their health and wellness. The VELIA ring (ex Iris) is poised to revolutionize the wearable technology market and provide users with an unprecedented level of insight into their bodies and minds. Compatible with Android and iOS.

 

December 2022 – February 2023 : The VELIA ring (ex Iris) has had a busy timeline since December 2022 until February 2023. The main focus during this period was to build awareness about the product and inform the public about the upcoming Kickstarter campaign. Through various marketing efforts such as social media campaigns, community on social media and emailing campaigns, we worked hard to create buzz and generate interest in the VELIA ring (ex Iris). The goal was to reach as many people like you as possible and provide you with all the information you need to know about the product and the Kickstarter campaign. This was a crucial time for the VELIA ring (ex Iris) as it laid the foundation for the success of the Kickstarter campaign and the future of the product.

 

February 15 – March 15 2023 : The focus shifted to the highly-anticipated Kickstarter campaign for the VELIA ring (ex Iris). During this period, we are putting all our efforts into promoting the campaign and reaching its funding goal of 100K CHF (about the same in USD). We are also continuing our marketing efforts and using the buzz generated from the pre-campaign awareness building to drive traffic to the Kickstarter page. The response from you is overwhelmingly positive, and the awareness campaign quickly gained traction. By the end of the campaign on March 15th, we aim that the VELIA ring (ex Iris) Kickstarter has not only met but exceeded its funding goal, proving that there is true believer in the future of healthcare technology being available for everyone. This period set the stage for the next steps in the VELIA ring (ex Iris) development and release to the market.

 

February 15 – August 2023 : we will be focusing on preparing for the first batch of production. This involved forecasting the volumes of rings that would be needed to fulfill orders from the Kickstarter campaign. Based on these forecasts, we will order the necessary quantities of raw materials, including circuit boards, battery cells, and mechanical components. The next step will be to complete the first batch of production, which involves fine-tuning the assembly process and ensuring that all components are properly integrated. We work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to make sure that every aspect of production is executed smoothly, from the procurement of raw materials to the final assembly of the rings. In parallel, we work closely with external companies to certify the VELIA ring (ex Iris), and make it compliant with the law. By the end of August 2023, the first batch of VELIA rings (ex Iris) will be produced and ready for distribution, marking a significant milestone in the journey of the product.

 

Second half of 2023 :

Q1 2024 : we will be sending the sizing kits to all the backers in order for them to pick their final size on the preferred finger. We focus on shipping the product to its backers and early adopters. This will involve coordinating with logistics partners to ensure that the rings are transported and delivered efficiently and securely. We will work to ensure that all orders are fulfilled on time and that your customer’s experience is as seamless as possible. The shipping of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) marks the beginning of its availability to the public and is a major milestone in its journey from an idea to a widely available product. We are so excited to bring the VELIA ring (ex Iris) to market !
We would like to notify that we can’t give shipping and tariff costs yet since they depend on the volume of orders for each color and the current market situation, which can change. Rest assured, we’re working to get you the best rates possible and will keep you posted once we have more info.

March 2024 : Beginning of pre-orders shipments

Q2 2024 : Addition of new features, including fertility status and blood pressure monitoring, are expected to be available through over-the-air software updates. 

Onward : introduction of several new features that will enhance the versatility and usefulness of your VELIA ring (ex Iris). With a public transportation ticket, travel pass, the ability to access your office, car, and home, and features like setting alarms, making contactless payments, and using biometric authentication, the VELIA ring (ex Iris)has never been more convenient.  Our continued development of the VELIA ring (ex Iris) reflects our commitment to delivering the best possible user experience. With these new features, you’ll be able to interact with the world in innovative ways, making your life easier and more convenient. To take advantage of some other new features, some users may need to purchase a new ring as they may not be compatible with older versions.

 

Risks and challenges

We’re proud to say that our technology break-through – PPG module – has been approved for some time now and has already gone through manufacturing tests and ready for mass production in M units. However, there are a few potential risks and challenges that we’d like to share with you:
Supply Chain Delays: The current global shortage of microelectronics materials has made it difficult for some suppliers to keep up with demand. There’s always the possibility of unexpected delays due to shortages of raw materials.
Testing and Quality Control: We’re committed to ensuring that the final product is of the highest quality, but that means taking the time to thoroughly test our products and make sure they meet our standards. We’re currently running several tests with different suppliers to find the best balance between quality, reliability, and cost of production.

We believe that these risks and challenges are surmountable, and we’re confident that we can deliver a product that meets your expectations.

 

Environmental commitments

We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. Our miniaturized technology and thinner, lighter design help us use less material, reducing the amount of resources required for production.
While we run production tests with different suppliers, we also explore opportunities to use recycled materials in our products. By doing so, we aim to minimize our impact on the environment and promote a more circular economy.
Additionally, we understand the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and are committed to monitoring and reducing our emissions each year. We believe that businesses have a responsibility to operate in an environmentally responsible manner and are proud to be a part of the movement towards a more sustainable future.

 

Join us on our mission to help make cutting-edge technology available to everyone.